All species on Earth—whether plants, animals, fungi, or even tiny microbes—are part of a unique web of life. The diversity and richness of these species regulate natural processes and sustain our ecosystems. Humans are an integral part of this world, relying heavily on wild species and biodiversity to fulfill our basic needs such as food, shelter, medicine, clothing, and fuel. In today’s profit-driven world, it’s crucial to remember that a significant portion of the global economy is built on this very diversity. Yet, human activities have directly contributed to the destruction of biodiversity across the planet. Over a million species are now endangered and facing the threat of extinction. Overexploitation of natural resources is altering habitats and disrupting the natural balance established over millions of years. Even the smallest changes in this delicate web of life can trigger negative, life-threatening consequences, as seen with the emergence of COVID-19, overfishing, climate change, and the spread of invasive alien species.
Since 2013, March 3rd has been recognized as World Wildlife Day. This day aims to raise public awareness about the importance of preserving every species on the planet and highlights the connection between human health, well-being, and overall biodiversity on Earth.
SEISSIGER Wildkamera
This year’s theme, “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet”, emphasizes that the decline in biodiversity directly affects the global economy. Human activity has accelerated this decline, posing a serious threat to the future functioning of the world as we know it today. To combat this trend and potentially restore biodiversity, we must invest more resources. It is essential for world governments, local communities, indigenous populations, and every individual to join together in a collective effort to preserve life on Earth.
Preserving the world’s biodiversity, along with the richness of habitats and species, should be a fundamental part of both global and local policies—and a responsibility shared by every one of us.
